definitive
Something that is definitive is considered to be the most authoritative, complete, and final version of something that cannot be improved or challenged. It also describes a decision or outcome that provides a firm conclusion to a situation or argument.
Examples
3 of 5I'm still waiting for a definitive answer on whether the trip is happening.
I am still waiting for a final and certain answer about the trip.
The court's ruling provided a definitive interpretation of the new tax law.
The court's decision gave a final and authoritative explanation of the law.
This is the definitive way to bake sourdough bread; don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
This is the absolute best and final method for making sourdough bread.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Definitive has 'FIN' in the middle (like 'finish'). It is the version that finishes the discussion.
Quick Quiz
After years of research, the professor published the ______ study on the causes of the French Revolution.
Correct!
The correct answer is: definitive
Examples
I'm still waiting for a definitive answer on whether the trip is happening.
everydayI am still waiting for a final and certain answer about the trip.
The court's ruling provided a definitive interpretation of the new tax law.
formalThe court's decision gave a final and authoritative explanation of the law.
This is the definitive way to bake sourdough bread; don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
informalThis is the absolute best and final method for making sourdough bread.
His 1994 biography remains the definitive account of the scientist's early life and discoveries.
academicHis 1994 biography is still the most authoritative and complete record of the scientist.
The CEO expects a definitive proposal by Friday to finalize the merger.
businessThe CEO wants a final and conclusive plan by Friday to finish the deal.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
the definitive word
the final or most authoritative statement on a subject
once and for all
in a definitive way that resolves a situation permanently
set in stone
definitive and impossible to change
Often Confused With
Definite means certain or clear, whereas definitive means the most authoritative or a final version that cannot be improved.
Usage Notes
Use 'definitive' when you want to emphasize that something is the highest standard or the final conclusion. It is stronger than 'final' because it implies authority and completeness.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'definite' (e.g., 'a definite book') when they mean 'definitive' (the best and most authoritative book).
Memory Tip
Definitive has 'FIN' in the middle (like 'finish'). It is the version that finishes the discussion.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'definitivus', meaning 'limiting' or 'defining', from 'definire' (to set bounds to).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In literature and music, a 'definitive edition' is highly valued as it represents the creator's final intended version of the work.
Quick Quiz
After years of research, the professor published the ______ study on the causes of the French Revolution.
Correct!
The correct answer is: definitive
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
A standard is a level of quality or achievement that is cons...
finalityThe state or quality of being finished, settled, or irrevers...
resolutionResolution describes how clear and detailed an image or a sc...
authorityAuthority refers to the legitimate power or right to give or...
benchmarkTo evaluate or measure something by comparing it against a s...
Related Words
posttortship
C1The state or period following the commission of a civil wrong (tort), specifically concerning the legal obligations, remedial processes, and the ongoing relationship between the claimant and the tortfeasor. It describes the phase where parties must navigate the consequences of a legal injury or liability.
pretheent
C1To pretheent is to establish or articulate a necessary precondition or foundational assumption before proceeding with a formal argument, technical process, or complex theory. It involves identifying the essential 'pre-theory' groundwork required for a subsequent logic to hold true.
monomagnacy
C1To consolidate diverse powers, resources, or influences into a single, dominant entity or focus. It describes the active process of achieving singular control or magnifying a single objective above all others.
nonponor
C1Describes an entity, role, or process that remains inactive or does not perform a specific required action within a system. It is often used in administrative or technical contexts to differentiate between active participants and those who are passive or non-contributing.
subfractate
C1A subfractate is a secondary or minor division within a larger fracture, typically referring to a microscopic or subsidiary crack in geological or material structures. It describes the state of a substance that has undergone partial fragmentation without completely separating from the main body.
contraphotoess
C1Describing a subject, material, or individual that is inherently resistant to being captured clearly on film or digital sensors. This can be due to physical light-deflecting properties or a deliberate, psychological avoidance of being photographed.
anteplicize
C1To fold or arrange something in layers in advance of a main process or assembly. It is primarily used in technical, textile, or structural contexts to describe a specific preparatory layering technique.
inpathtion
C1Describing a state, component, or data point that exists or occurs strictly within a designated trajectory or predefined sequence. It characterizes elements that are functionally integrated into a linear process rather than being external or peripheral to it.
dishabment
C1Describing a state of being untidily or partially dressed, often suggesting a sense of negligent ease or emotional disarray. It characterizes an appearance that lacks the usual polish, formality, or structural neatness expected in a social or professional setting.
subjectable
C1To be capable of being placed under or made to undergo a particular action, process, or condition. It describes the state of being liable or open to certain treatments or influences, such as legal scrutiny or scientific testing.
Comments (0)
Login to CommentStart learning languages for free
Start Learning Free